Council advances South Morley Street study to analyze third-turn lane, sidewalks and drainage

Council approved moving forward with a study of South Morley Street to evaluate a third-turn lane from Rollins to Route M, stormwater improvements and new sidewalk connections. Staff explained the study by Bartlett & West would produce the engineering and cost estimates needed for applications to the TAP (sidewalk) program and a separate cost-share program for roadway work. Staff said the study proposal is hourly-based and would not exceed $16,500.

Staff described a phased approach: the TAP funding would focus on sidewalks to connect nearby residential areas and trailer parks to existing sidewalks, while cost-share funding would be used for pavement, curb-and-gutter and stormwater work. "This right here is just for Bartlett and West to do the initial study of that whole corridor to get us the information for however we decide to phase it," a staff presenter said. Council members emphasized the need to coordinate phasing so sidewalks and paving are completed in a sensible order and reminded staff that MoDOT’s overlay schedule and partnership will influence timing and extent of paving.

A council member confirmed the study would be paid from the transportation fund and staff said reimbursements are expected to support the fund. The council agreed to move the proposal forward to the next meeting for finalization of the scope and contract terms.